Dog Days

After celebrating the success of athletic endeavors, some of the best stories come from the unsung heroes who build, maintain, and champion a shared passion for outdoor recreation. Larry Zurawski’s profile of the Swedetown Trail Club describes how dedicated volunteers, athletes, and local government officials can create a place that works for skiers, mountain bikers, and hikers. It’s a model that can be replicated in other places.

The Wisconsin Bike Federation champions cycling around the state from many essential perspectives. Teaching kids to ride safely, advocating for safer places to ride, and sponsoring events have a real and much-needed impact.

Volunteers work tirelessly to bring visions to life. Volunteer work is both fruitful and rewarding, yielding tangible results. At times, readers have raised their voices to make sure their concerns are addressed. Mike McFadzen’s “Silent Alarm” columns have kept readers informed on behind-the-scenes political maneuvering that needs to be called out.

In this issue’s Back Page, Jason Tufty, President – Minnesota Off-Road Cyclist, offers a point of view about co-existing with e-bikes on local trail systems, paved and dirt. People who participate in outdoor pursuits are speaking up, making their voices heard, and creating a positive impact. We will keep telling their stories.

We live, work, and play in a beautiful environment filled with the wonders of Mother Nature. A long line of writers remind readers to embrace the wind, lift your face to the sun, and look for.

Emily Stone’s Wild Notes reminds readers to pay attention to details. Picking ripe blueberries, watching a dragonfly flitter, keeping your eyes open to capture the beauty that surrounds us. Reading her August essay, I’m planning to push my kayak off the shores of Bayfield, WI. It’s been too long since I’ve felt the swells of Lake Superior under my boat.

Finally, Timothy Bauer’s “Dammed If You Do” delves into the complex history of the Kickapoo River. What is the purpose of a river? Does the purpose change over time? Are you paying attention to the debates in your community about how to use the land and water for the benefit of paddlers, cyclists, runners, and skiers?

The contributors to Silent Sports, both established and new, are delivering compelling work that champions and celebrates an outdoor recreation state of mind—looking forward to bringing you more.

Onward,

ldzierzak@formula4media.com